Hyman was the only person nominated for the position in the uncontested election. Former chairman Terry Miller resigned recently amind controversy over his work as a paid consultant for some Republicans running in the fall elections.

Hyman, from south Lee County, is a longtime GOP activist who now does consulting work.

REC members vote every two years for officers. Hyman will serve as "interim chairman" until the regular election is held in December. He said earlier he's made no decision about whether he'll run again then.

He stressed the need for unity among Republicans in the upcoming elections, and urged all candidates and campaigns to steer away from contentious races, said Nancy McGovern, Lee County's Republican state committeewoman.